Train strike continues as qualified assistant engine drivers promoted
 

by Rajmi Manatunga

Amid the ongoing islandwide train strike, Railways Minister Felix Perera yesterday promoted all qualified assistant engine drivers of the Railways Department to the post of driver and paid a special allowance to all operational staff working during the strike.

Accordingly, it has been decided to pay an allowance of Rs 1,000 to all drivers, assistant drivers and guards for every train they help operate during the strike.

Nine assistant engine drivers qualified to be drivers were also appointed engine drivers.

Twenty other qualified assistant drivers had already been promoted to the post of driver earlier. Among other measures taken by the Minister in consultation with several railway trade unions are increasing the internal recruitment of drivers to the Department by 20 per cent lowering the educational qualification for the post to G.C.E Ordinary Level and commencing a driver training course at the Ceylon German Technical Training Institute.

The engine drivers' islandwide strike continued to cripple train services yesterday despite strenuous efforts by railway authorities to maintain a satisfactory service.

Railways Ministry Secretary K. Haputhanthri said they operated 42 trains yesterday morning while around 30 trains were scheduled to operate in the evening.

"We are trying our best to provide a satisfactory service regardless of the strike. Accordingly, retired and competent engine drivers have been called for service. A group of non-striking engine drivers are also assisting us to continue the service," he said.

However, over 100 trains on the usual schedule had to be cancelled yesterday due to the strike which left thousands of commuters stranded at railway stations and bus terminals.

Steps had been taken to provide police protection to trains with the help of around 25 retired engine drivers and the non-striking employees. Locomotive Engine Drivers Association (LEDA) Secretary K.E.U Konthasinghe said they will continue their trade union action unless Minister Perera intervenes and addresses their problems. "The Minister in a previous discussion responded positively to our demands and directed officials to look into them. But these officials have failed to act," he said.